2027: Saraki Clears Air on Kwara PDP Candidacy, Says no Favourite Aspirant, Only Level Playing Field *** As Party Stakeholders, Kwara women, youths besiege Waziri’s residence to celebrate Sallah

By Omowumi Omotosho

Former Nigeria Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has declared that he has no preferred aspirant ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that all candidates will be given a level playing field.

Saraki made the declaration on Sunday during a well-attended Sallah Hangout at his GRA residence in Ilorin, where party stakeholders, women caucuses, and supporters from across the state gathered to celebrate Eid-el-Kabir with him and his family.

In his address to the gathering, Saraki cautioned aspirants against parading themselves in his name or seeking endorsement through the backdoor, stating unequivocally that he will not impose any candidate. He urged aspirants to go to their wards and seek their support.

He also took a swipe at the monetization of the political process, urging aspirants to redirect their campaign resources from lobbying party leaders to community development like fixing a borehole, supporting a school, or help the youths.

He further charged party elders to shun the practice of collecting money from aspirants, calling instead for a culture where leaders demand accountability and community-oriented actions from those seeking office.

Addressing the larger party faithful, Saraki urged them to commence political mobilization at the grassroots by securing their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and encouraging others to do the same.

The atmosphere at the event was lively despite the torrential disturbance, with Saraki’s residence bustling with activity. Traditional music groups filled the air with drumbeats and melodies, as attendees dressed in colorful attires, danced and chanted praises for the former governor, especially in appreciation of his generous Sallah packages, which many described as “more massive than in previous years.”

Looking ahead with optimism, Saraki declared that the next Eid-el-Kabir celebration would mark the end of the PDP’s time in opposition in Kwara State.

“We have only one more Ileya to celebrate as opposition, Insha Allah. By the next one after that, we shall be celebrating in Government House,” Saraki declared, drawing loud applause from the crowd.

“He thanked the party members, especially the women groups, for their steadfastness, resilience, and commitment to the party’s cause despite the challenges. According to him, their unwavering dedication is a source of inspiration and a clear sign that victory is near.

Saraki emphasized that the PDP is committed to rescuing the state from poor governance and repositioning it for the benefit of all Kwarans.

As part of activities lined up for the Sallah Hangout with Saraki, a medical outreach team positioned at the residence of the former Senate President, also offered medical services to young and old members of the public, free of charge.